WWW.BROMLEYFC.COM - MATCH REPORT
BROMLEY 1 AFC WIMBLEDON 1 – LEAGUE 13/11/04
In front of the biggest crowd at Hayes Lane since the first round FA Cup game in 1996, Bromley put on a fine defensive display to earn a point from the league leaders, who set a record for the longest unbeaten run of league games.
The game got off to a lively start with the ball zipping around and the tackles flying in, along with both sets of supporters making plenty of noise. Walker had to make two saves at one end and then Huggins was denied by a late clearance at the other, when he latched on to a poor back pass. Bromley won a corner on 17 mins and Amoako managed to beat the keeper to the ball and Henriques crashed in the loose ball from close range for 1-0. The Dons then had a lengthy spell of pressure. Randall was denied by Walker, before on 33 mins a poorly cleared free kick was lashed in from 30 yards by Ursell for 1-1. A late foul on Bennetts saw a mass brawl explode, but ref McLaren was sensible and only showed yellow cards. The Dons continued to have the upper hand going into the half, but Huggins did well down the left only for his shot to be well saved by Naisbitt. 1-1 at half time with Bromley just holding on.
The second half saw Wimbledon on top for most of it, but Bromley occasionally forging good attacks on the break. Everard went close with a header and for a while it just looked like a matter of time before they scored as we were really on the ropes. Macca made a few changes with Rose and Taiwo coming on in midfield hoping that they would create a little more. In the last 10 mins Watson came on and was fouled near the box. Taiwo stepped up, but his curling effort was well saved by Naisbitt. With time running out the Dons had two shouts for penalties, which Mr McLaren had the courage to deny despite the obvious pressure of their large following. Bromley held out for the draw and both teams had reason to celebrate at the final whistle.
Quote for the game: ‘I queued up for 30mins only to find there was no vegetarian option at the Tea Bar! – Rich B.
Team: Walker, Potterill, Okafor, P Kember, Luckett, Arkwright, Drewett, Henriques, Huggins, Amoako, Bennetts.
Subs: Rose, Stradwick, Watson, M Kember, Taiwo.